Hershey, Pennsylvania, is a popular tourist destination known for its world-famous chocolate factory and amusement park. If you’re planning a trip to Hershey, you’ll want to fly into the closest airport for convenience and ease of travel.
The closest airport to Hershey, Pennsylvania, is Harrisburg International Airport (MDT), located approximately 12 miles (20 kilometers) from the city center. MDT offers a variety of non-stop flights to major cities across the United States, making it a convenient option for travelers.
Other nearby airports include Baltimore/Washington International Airport (BWI), located approximately 60 miles (100 kilometers) from Hershey, and Philadelphia International Airport (PHL), located approximately 80 miles (130 kilometers) from Hershey. These airports offer a wider variety of flights but may require a longer drive to reach Hershey.
Airport Amenities and Services
Harrisburg International Airport (MDT)
Harrisburg International Airport offers a variety of amenities and services to ensure a comfortable and convenient travel experience. These include:
- Free Wi-Fi
- Restaurants and retail shops
- Car rental services
- Parking options
- Passenger assistance
Baltimore/Washington International Airport (BWI)
Baltimore/Washington International Airport, while located further away from Hershey, offers a wider range of amenities and services, including:
- Multiple terminal buildings with connecting trains
- Extensive retail and dining options
- Business centers
- Visitor information desk
- Variety of parking options
Philadelphia International Airport (PHL)
Philadelphia International Airport offers similar amenities and services to BWI, including:
- Multiple terminals with trams for easy transportation
- Wide selection of shops and restaurants
- Business lounges
- Currency exchange
- Car rental services
Transportation from the Airport to Hershey
From Harrisburg International Airport (MDT)
The most convenient way to get from Harrisburg International Airport to Hershey is by taxi or ride-sharing service. The trip takes approximately 20 minutes and costs around $25-$35. Alternatively, you can take the Capital Area Transit (CAT) bus, which runs every 30 minutes and costs $6. The bus trip takes approximately 45 minutes.
From Baltimore/Washington International Airport (BWI)
From BWI, you can take the Maryland Airport Express (MAE) bus to the Harrisburg Train Station. From there, you can take a train to the Hershey Transportation Center. The total journey time is approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes and costs around $40-$50.
From Philadelphia International Airport (PHL)
To get to Hershey from PHL, you can take the SEPTA Airport Line train to suburban Philadelphia. From there, you can transfer to the Amtrak train to the Harrisburg Train Station and then take a train to the Hershey Transportation Center. The total journey time is approximately 3 hours and costs around $50-$60.
Parking Options at the Airports
Harrisburg International Airport (MDT)
MDT offers a variety of parking options, including short-term, long-term, and valet parking. Short-term parking costs $3 per hour with a maximum daily rate of $24. Long-term parking costs $10 per day with a maximum monthly rate of $120. Valet parking costs $25 per day.
Baltimore/Washington International Airport (BWI)
BWI also offers a range of parking options, including hourly, daily, weekly, and monthly parking. Hourly parking costs $3 per hour with a maximum daily rate of $25. Daily parking costs $20 per day with a maximum monthly rate of $100. Weekly parking costs $120 per week and monthly parking costs $220 per month.
Philadelphia International Airport (PHL)
PHL provides similar parking options to BWI, including short-term, long-term, and valet parking. Short-term parking costs $4 per hour with a maximum daily rate of $32. Long-term parking costs $20 per day with a maximum monthly rate of $160. Valet parking costs $35 per day.
Tips for Finding the Best Flight
Book in Advance
To secure the best airfare, it’s recommended to book your flight well in advance, especially if you are traveling during peak season. Airlines typically offer early booking discounts and promotions.
Be Flexible with Travel Dates
If you have flexibility with your travel dates, consider flying on off-peak days or during shoulder seasons. This can significantly reduce the cost of your flight.
Compare Airlines and Prices
Don’t just rely on one airline. Use flight comparison websites or search engines to compare prices and find the best deals from different airlines.
FAQ
What is the closest airport to Hershey, Pennsylvania?
The closest airport to Hershey, Pennsylvania, is Harrisburg International Airport (MDT), located approximately 12 miles from the city center.
Which airport has the most flights to Hershey, Pennsylvania?
Harrisburg International Airport (MDT) offers the most direct flights to Hershey, Pennsylvania. It has non-stop flights to major cities across the United States.
How do I get from the airport to Hershey, Pennsylvania?
The most convenient way to get from Harrisburg International Airport to Hershey is by taxi or ride-sharing service. Alternatively, you can take the Capital Area Transit (CAT) bus.
What are the parking options at the airports near Hershey, Pennsylvania?
All the airports near Hershey, Pennsylvania, offer short-term, long-term, and valet parking options with varying prices. Harrisburg International Airport (MDT) has the most affordable parking rates among the three airports.
How far is Harrisburg International Airport from Hershey, Pennsylvania?
Harrisburg International Airport (MDT) is approximately 12 miles (20 kilometers) from Hershey, Pennsylvania.
Conclusion
When planning a trip to Hershey, Pennsylvania, the closest airport to fly into is Harrisburg International Airport (MDT). MDT offers a variety of non-stop flights to major cities across the United States, making it a convenient option for travelers. Other nearby airports include Baltimore/Washington International Airport (BWI) and Philadelphia International Airport (PHL), which offer a wider variety of flights but may require a longer drive to reach Hershey. Consider the factors discussed in this article, such as airport amenities, transportation options, and parking rates, to make an informed decision about which airport best suits your needs.